DE102006039177A1 - Sample preparation device and sample preparation method - Google Patents

Abstract

A sample cutting preparation apparatus of the present invention comprises a microtome (21) which cuts a solid sample by means of a cutting knife, a humidifier (10, 14) which transfers moisture to a carrier tape, a cutting conveyor (2, 4) for adsorbing a cut with help an adsorption force of the moisture transferred to the carrier tape to promote the cut; a transfer mechanism (44) for applying water to the surface of a slide (42) to enable the cut from the carrier tape to the slide by means of an adsorptive force of the applied water an expansion unit (45) which heats the slide having the cut adsorbed thereon to vaporize the moisture to expand the cut, and a slide conveying means (80) for conveying the sliced slide.

Description

BACKGROUND THE INVENTION

The The present invention relates to a microtome for use in scientific sample analysis or medical analysis, such as For example, the microscopic observation of an organic Probe, more specifically to a device and a method, at a sample cut on an auxiliary cutting element using moisture and that on the auxiliary cutting element arranged cut then in contact (pressed with a micro force) with a water-coated microscope slide becomes. The single cut is made by the auxiliary cutting element the slide transferred and for heated for a predetermined period of time (heated), causing wrinkles or shrinkage during the Cutting action of the cut were generated, be eliminated a fixing force for establishing close contact with respect to the slide becomes elevated, and a satisfactory sample cut is prepared.

So far was a surgery to dissect (Cutting) a cut of a person using a Microtome (device in which after moving a solid sample or a cutting blade to a degree that a desired Depth of cut corresponds to the solid sample cut with the cutting knife is made to create a cut).

The solid sample comprises a frozen sample prepared using a Embedded bedding material, and a sample embedded in paraffin, and the microtome to perform The cutting process includes a sliding microtome and a rotary microtome. In a step to prepare this Schnitt provides the handling of the cut during the cutting process and After completion of a cutting step an important and very difficult point.

With reference to the 10A . 10B and 10C A conventional sample cutting method using the sliding microtome will be described.

First, as in 10A is shown, a cutting knife 22 fed in an arrow direction shown in the diagram, followed by cutting a solid sample 20 starts. Instead of the cutting knife 22 can also move the solid sample 20 in the direction of the cutting blade 22 to be moved. While the cutting knife 22 , as in 10B is moved with one hand, brings a person with the other hand in a protruding end portion of a device 23 , such as a very thin, moisture-containing brush (another device may be used, such as a small moisture-proof strip of paper or a wooden, pencil-like, pointed end free device) in contact with a cut start edge of a cut 41 which is generated at this time.

While the device 23 is moved with the cut 41 was brought into contact at a speed, the speed of movement of the cutting blade 22 corresponds, is below, as in 10C is shown, the cutting process is completed, whereupon it is possible to cut 41 to take in a state in which one end of the cut with the device 23 was brought into contact at the end of the cutting process. Furthermore, the removed section 41 attached to the slide. Once the cut 41 Floats on the water surface to wrinkles or shrinkage of the removed section 41 to eliminate, the cut is normally advanced with the slide.

Subsequently, the slide on which the cut 41 is mounted on an expansion unit (unit, such as a hot plate) or positioned in a housing at a constant temperature, then heated (heated) for a certain period of time, whereupon a non-colored sample cut is completed. Finally, the sample is subjected to a coloring step and a sealing step in which the sample is covered with a cover glass to produce a colored sample cut.

Hereinafter, a conventional sample cutting method using the rotary microtome with reference to 3A . 3B and 3C described.

As in 3A is shown, becomes a solid sample 20 in the direction of an arrow 19 a cutting edge 22a a cutting knife 22 supplied, and the cutting process of the solid sample 20 starts. As in 3B is shown, the cutting edge 22a relatively and substantially parallel to a major surface of the solid sample 20 moved, and a sample 41 with a thickness of several microns is cut. If this process is repeated, as in 3C shown are the cuts 41 generated continuously.

Because the resulting cut 41 normally bulges or wrinkles, the section is brought in accordance with the treatment methods described below in a state in which the Cut should be colored.

The resulting cut 41 is attached to a paper piece with a moistened end, cut into sections, and the cut 41 , whose back faces the water surface, floats and expands in the water of a water tank. Accordingly, the fine folds of the cut become 41 away. According to a kind of the cut 41 If necessary, the water present in the water tank can be warm water with a temperature of 40 to 45 ° C.

When the cut that floats in the water tank has been sufficiently expanded, one end of the slide is dipped obliquely into the water. As one end of the cut is attached to the slide and pressed with a device such as a tip of a thin brush, the continuous cut is made 41 broken at a desired location, and the resulting cut 41 is positioned on the slide as if it had been moved with the slide (attachment step).

Of the Slides, where the tissue section has been attached is placed on an expansion plate, extended and dried. The cut can be made using the be called Plate to be dried as an expansion plate while a temperature the surface the plate is controlled at, for example, 40 to 45 ° C. alternative the slide, on which the cut was fastened, in a container with positioned at a constant temperature and for a certain period of time heated (heated). This expansion treatment is performed to to remove more fine wrinkles from the cut, creating a tight contact force acting between the incision and the slide, can be improved (expansion step). This way will the uncoloured Sample cut and finally a staining step and a sealing step in which the sample is covered with a cover glass is subjected to the colored To produce sample section.

• 1) Da ein differenziertes Fachwissen sowie eine differenzierte Technologie für die Operation erforderlich sind, muss es sich bei der Person, welche die Operation durchführt, um einen Fachmann handeln.
• 2) Werden eine große Anzahl von Schnitten erzeugt und eine große Anzahl von Proben präpariert, sind ein großes Labor und viel Zeit erforderlich.
• 3) Da die Operation Sorgfalt erfordert, ermüdet die Person merklich.
• 4) Da die Person die manuelle Operation durchführt, ist es schwierig, eine große Anzahl von Proben mit gleich bleibender Präzision und Qualität zu erzeugen.
• 5) Da die Person die Operation manuell durchführt, ändert sich die auf das Schneidmesser oder dergleichen ausgeübte Kraft, so dass Nachteile, wie beispielsweise Dickenunebenheit, Faltenbildung und Bruch, leicht erzeugt werden. Insbesondere, wenn die Person bei einer lang andauernden Operation ermüdet, werden verschiedene Nachteile, wie beispielsweise Faltenbildung, Bruch und Schrumpfung, leicht erzeugt.

Preparing the sample slice in the manner described above poses various problems, since most operations depend on a manual skill of a person, such as a clinical laboratory expert, such as the following problems 1 to 5.

• 1) Since differentiated expertise and differentiated technology are required for the operation, the person performing the operation must be a specialist.
• 2) Producing a large number of sections and preparing a large number of samples requires a large laboratory and a lot of time.
• 3) Since the operation requires care, the person becomes fatigued noticeably.
• 4) Since the person performs the manual operation, it is difficult to produce a large number of samples with consistent precision and quality.
• 5) Since the person performs the operation manually, the force applied to the cutting blade or the like changes, so that disadvantages such as thickness unevenness, wrinkling and breakage are easily generated. In particular, when the person fatigues in a long-lasting operation, various drawbacks such as wrinkling, breakage and shrinkage are easily generated.

to solution of the problem described above by the degree of dependency from the manual operation is scaled down to the operator A technology is proposed in which a share is Manual operation is automated and performed by a machine. In the paragraphs To [0032] Japanese Patent Application KOKAI Publication No. 2004-28910 (hereinafter referred to as Patent Literature 1) For example, an automatic device described in which the cut is electrostatically adsorbed and transported by a carrier tape, and the cut is applied to an adhesive liquid on the carrier in one Transfer step pressed, to transfer the cut.

The The device described in patent document 1 is then suitable if the sample was cured with paraffin or the like, but in one case, in which a frozen sample is cut to prepare the cut is an electrostatic adsorption force is weakened since the sample is not dried, which is why the device is not here is effective. Because the sample for preparing the sample section in many cases is generated by the moisture-containing cut frozen and hardened Furthermore, it is difficult to handle the sample and it is Lots of laboratory space and time required to perform the surgery.

SHORT DESCRIPTION THE INVENTION

The present invention is intended to solve the problem described above, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a sample preparation apparatus and a sample preparation method with a very good handling, in which wrinkling and shrinkage, which in a difficult-to-handle sample section, in particular a cut, which has been generated by cutting a solid sample brought into a frozen state and eliminating a close contact fixing force with respect to a slide in which it is possible to reduce the degree of dependence on a manual operation.

The A sample preparation device according to the present invention Invention is a device that provides a solid sample through Embedding an original sample as a cut object with an embedding material for dissection a sample section was cut with a cutting blade wherein the apparatus comprises: a cutting unit which moving the solid sample and the cutting blade relative to each other, around the solid sample with a predetermined cutting thickness by means of cutting the cutting blade; Moisture transfer means for transferring from moisture to a band-like auxiliary cutting element; cut subsidies for adsorbing the resulting cut by an adsorptive force the transmitted to the auxiliary cutting element Moisture to transport the cut; Transfer agent to Apply water to the surface of a slide to the cut from the auxiliary cutting element on the slide through the one exerted by the water To transfer adsorption power; an expansion unit around the slide through which the incision was adsorbed, to heat and vaporize the moisture, causing the cut to expand becomes; and slide conveyors to promote of the sectioned slide.

When Moisture transfer agent a humidifier can be used, the misty water in Direction of the auxiliary cutting element sprays, or a cooler, the the auxiliary cutting element and a peripheral portion of the element locally cools, to condense moisture in the environment on the auxiliary cutting element.

As a means of transmission A water drop mechanism can be used, the warm water at a temperature of 30 to 50 ° C on the slide drips. Alternatively, the expansion unit may after the transmission means Water is dropped on the slide at room temperature and transferred has the water on the slide heat, to produce warm water at a temperature of 30 to 50 ° C. When the water heating temperature less than 30 ° C is, exists little difference to room temperature, and an effect in terms of the favoritism The drying process is difficult to recognize. When the water heating temperature whereas it exceeds 50 ° C, The section of an organic sample can be changed.

Further can Be provided control means for controlling the cutting conveyor, around the auxiliary cutting element at a speed ratio of 80 to 90% with respect to a cutting speed of the cutting unit after one end of the cut from the auxiliary cutting element was adsorbed. If a speed ratio (V2 / V1) × 100 one Auxiliary cutter conveyor speed V2 becomes less than 80% with respect to a cutting speed V1, becomes easy wrinkling or shrinkage of the cut, a shape defect of the cut and also produces an uneven thickness of the cut. When the speed ratio (V2 / V1) × 100 whereas 90% exceeds will easily be a thrust between the cut and the auxiliary cutting element generated so that the cut on a gentle transfer of one Side of the solid sample to an auxiliary cutting element side prevented is, or it acts a local traction on the cut, so that this breaks easily.

Further it is preferred that the control means comprises the slide conveying means controls to the sliced slide Remove the expansion unit after the cut provided slides heated by the expansion unit has been. In this case, automation becomes a sample-cut preparation operation further favored.

One Sample section preparation method according to the present Invention is a method in which a solid sample by Embedding an original sample as a cut object with an embedding material for dissection a sample section was generated using a cutting knife The method comprises the steps of: (i) transmitting from moisture to a band-like auxiliary cutting element; (ii) Adsorb a cutting end area that is generated when the cutting operation the solid sample is started with the cutting blade, from the auxiliary cutting element, transferred to the moisture was then transferred cutting from the solid sample to the auxiliary cutting element an adsorption force of the transferred Moisture, closely contacting the continuously generated cut by continuing the cutting operation of the solid sample with the auxiliary cutting element, to which the moisture was transferred, and transfer the completely cut cut on the auxiliary cutting element; (iii) moisten the surface a slide with water, close contact of the transferred to the auxiliary cutting element Cut with this slide, and transferring the cut from the auxiliary cutting element to the Slide; and (iv) heating the sectioned slide to evaporate the water, the cut is extended.

When the solid sample is fed toward the cutting blade and cut, the supply of the ribbon-like auxiliary cutting element is stopped. When the solid sample is cut as it is fed, the cut extends upward to the auxiliary cutting element. As soon as or shortly after a protruding end of the cut comes into contact with the auxiliary cutting element, the supply of the auxiliary cutting element is restarted (see 2C and 2D ). Timing of re-starting the supply of this tape may be in response to a predetermined period of time that elapses evenly from a time when the supply of the tape was stopped from a time when a sensor detected that the projecting end of the cut has come in contact with the auxiliary cutting element, or of a predetermined period of time elapsing from the time of detection. It should be understood that in step (ii), it is preferred that after one end of the cut has been adsorbed by the auxiliary cutting element, the auxiliary cutting element is moved at a speed ratio of 80 to 90% with respect to the cutting speed. The reason has already been described above.

in the Step (i) may mist-like water from a humidifier as a moisture transfer agent be sprayed in the direction of the auxiliary cutting element. Alternatively, the Auxiliary cutting element and a peripheral region of the element locally from a moisture supply agent serving radiator chilled moisture in the environment on the auxiliary cutting element to condense.

Further can in step (iii) warm water at a temperature of 30 up to 50 ° C on the slide using a water dropping mechanism as a transfer agent dropped and added become. Alternatively, heated an expansion unit after the transfer agent has water at room temperature on the slide dripped and transferred to this, the existing on the slide Water to produce warm water at a temperature of 30 to 50 ° C.

SHORT DESCRIPTION INDIVIDUAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

1 Fig. 10 is a schematic structural block diagram showing a sample preparation apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

2A to 2F 12 are step diagrams showing a procedure of sampling a section using the apparatus according to the first embodiment;

3A to 3C Fig. 15 are step diagrams showing a procedure for sampling a slice using a rotary microtome;

4 Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a part of a conveyor robot for use in the apparatus of the present invention;

5 Fig. 10 is a plan view showing the conveyor robot and an expansion unit;

6 Fig. 15 is a side cross-sectional view showing the conveyor robot and the expansion unit;

7 Fig. 10 is a schematic constitution block diagram showing a sample slice preparing apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

8A to 8D 12 are step diagrams showing a procedure for transferring a cut to a slide using the sample slice preparing apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

9A to 9D 12 are step diagrams showing a procedure of transferring a cut to a slide using a conventional sample-cut preparation apparatus as a comparative example; and

10A to 10C Fig. 15 are perspective views showing a procedure for preparing a slice using a conventional sliding microtome.

PRECISE DESCRIPTION THE INVENTION

following becomes a preferred embodiment of the present invention with reference to the attached Drawings described.

First Embodiment

Hereinafter, an apparatus of a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG 1 described.

A sample preparation device 1 comprising: a feed belt roll 2 for feeding a carrier tape 5 serving as an auxiliary cutting element; and a take-up drum 4 containing the carrier tape 5 winds. When the take-up drum 4 is rotated by a tape drive mechanism, so the carrier tape 5 as a cutting along a surgical line of a microtome 21 fed.

From an upstream side toward a downstream side of a travel path of the carrier tape 5 is in a position between the steps A and B a leadership role 3a arranged one direction of the carrier tape 5 that from the feed roll 2 is supplied, changes from a vertical direction in a horizontal direction. In a position corresponding to step C is a humidifier 10 arranged. In a position corresponding to step D, a cutting unit (microtome) 21 that a cutting knife 22 includes, and a leadership role 3b arranged, which indicates the direction of the carrier tape 5 changes from the horizontal direction to the vertical direction. In a position corresponding to the E level, there is a water dropping mechanism 44 arranged as a transfer agent. In a position ranging from stage E to stage G, there is a conveyor robot 80 (please refer 4 ) provided as a slide conveyor. In a position corresponding to step H, it is an expansion unit 45 with a hot plate 46 arranged.

The humidifier 10 includes an upwardly opening nozzle 11 and is disposed below a carrier tape moving path in a state in which a distance from this nozzle 11 to the carrier tape 5 is set at a predetermined interval. In the humidifier 10 generated water vapor is from the nozzle 11 blown upwards and hits the bottom of the carrier tape 5 to the carrier tape 5 to moisten. To ensure adequate humidification of the carrier tape 5 To achieve, it is preferred that the surface of the carrier tape 5 is hydrophilic. It is further preferred that that of the humidifier 10 generated water vapor at room temperature is saturated or supersaturated under an atmospheric pressure. It should be clear that in the humidifier 10 an ultrasonic spray system, a spray nozzle system, a heating system, and a system with two or more of said systems may optionally be provided.

In a state in which a solid sample 20 on a surgical base element of the microtome 21 is fixed, the microtome in a horizontal direction, which is shown in the diagram by an arrow, by means of a conveying mechanism (not shown) along a feed path of the carrier tape 5 emotional. The solid sample 20 is produced by inserting, shearing and curing a test body such as an organic sample in an embedding material such as paraffin.

The water drop mechanism 44 serves as transfer means for transferring a cut 41 from the carrier tape 5 on a slide 42 , In the step E, water from the water dropping mechanism 44 on the slide 42 dripped to a water film 43 form, whereupon the slide 42 conveyed by means of the slide conveyor to stage F and directly below a horizontal passage line of the carrier tape 5 is positioned, and the slide 42 on the cut 41 who is attached to the band 5 is fastened, pressed, so that the cut 41 from the carrier tape 5 on the slide 42 by an adsorption force of the water film 43 is transferred.

Hereinafter, the expansion unit and the slide conveying means will be described with reference to FIG 4 described.

The hot plate 45 includes: the mounting surface 46 on which the sectioned slide 42 to be fastened; and a heater 47 , which is just below this mounting surface 46 is provided, wherein the hot plate serves as an expansion unit. The heater 47 is with a heating power supply 48 connected, their operation by a controller 50 is controlled. A temperature sensor 49 is directly below the heater 47 arranged the temperature of the hot plate 45 is detected, and a temperature detection signal becomes an input section of the controller 50 Posted. The control 50 controls an operation to the heater 47 based on an input signal energy from the heating power supply 48 supply. Accordingly, the slide becomes 42 , which is provided with the cut, with the desired temperature on the hot plate 45 heated.

As in the 5 and 6 is shown is the conveyor robot 80 as a slide conveyor in directions of three axes XYZ by means of a robot drive mechanism 54 movable around the sectioned slide 42 from a transfer position to the expansion unit, and the robot includes a robot hand 83 and a pair of finger elements 81 . 82 , The two finger elements 81 . 82 are at a distal end of the robot hand 83 fixed so as to be spaced apart at a predetermined interval, and they are movably supported by a linear slide mechanism (not shown). When the finger elements 81 . 82 are moved close to each other, push the finger elements 81 . 81 on an outer peripheral end surface of the slide 42 on, and the slide 42 is between the one finger element 81 and the other finger element 82 held.

The conveyor robot 80 includes: an X-axis linear system 90 that extends in a longitudinal direction of the slide 42 extends; a Y-axis linear system 91 extending in a width direction of the slide 42 extends; and a Z-axis linearys tem 92 in a thickness direction of the slide 42 is liftable. The corresponding linear systems 90 . 91 and 92 include a linear guide rail, a ball screw and a servomotor. The robot hand 83 is movable by this linear system 90 . 91 and 92 held the three axes.

The control 50 , in the 4 is shown serves as a control means for controlling an operation of the robot drive mechanism 84 , According to the slide 42 , which is provided with the cut, controls the control 50 the operation of the conveyor robot 80 so this cut-glass slide 42 can be heated at an optimum temperature for an optimal period of time. According to a kind or a cut state of the cut 41 becomes one of several expansion units 45a . 45b and 45c , which differ in temperature from each other, selected, and the slide 42 The cut is made on the hot plate 45a (or 45b or 45c ) of the selected expansion unit. After the sectioned slide 42 under predetermined conditions, the controller controls 50 the operation of the conveyor robot 80 to remove the slide from the expansion unit.

The following is with reference to the 1 and 2A to 2F a case is described in which a sample section is prepared using the apparatus of the present embodiment.

The solid sample 20 is on the mounting base element of the microtome 21 arranged, and this is promoted to stage D and positioned there. Subsequently, the Zuführbandrolle 2 and the take-up drum 5 each driven, the feed belt 5 supplied at a predetermined rate, water vapor from the humidifier 10 on the carrier tape 5 sprayed and the bottom of the tape 5 moistened. The water vapor gets in the nozzle 11 of the humidifier 10 at least brought into a saturated or supersaturated state. Accordingly, the tape 5 with the hydrophilic surface, when it comes into contact with the water vapor, in a simple manner moistened.

If, as it is in 2A shown is the carrier tape 5 from the feed belt roll 2 above (above step D) the solid sample 20 is supplied on a conveyor base member, and when a water vapor moistened area the pressure roller 3b achieved as it is in 2 B shown is the supply of the tape 5 stopped, after which the supply of the solid sample 20 starts.

If the solid sample 20 in the direction of the cutting blade 22 is fed, the solid sample 20 cut accordingly. With the supply of the solid sample 20 the cut extends 41 up to the band 5 , As soon as or immediately after a protruding end 41a the cut with the tape 5 comes in contact, as in 2C shown is the supply of the tape 5 restarted, as in 2D is shown. The timing of this re-start of the tape feed may be set to a point of time after a predetermined time has elapsed from the time when the tape supply stopped, a point of time when a sensor (not shown) detects the protruding end 41a the cut with the tape 5 has come into contact, or a time after a predetermined period of time has passed from the detection time evenly.

After the protruding end 41a the cut of the tape 5 adsorbed, the tape becomes 5 wound up with a take-up speed V2 having a percentage speed ratio of 80 to 90% relative to a cutting speed V1, and the cut 41 will be on the tape 5 arranged as in 2E is shown. At this time, a shape defect (unevenness of thickness, wrinkling, shrinkage) of the cut easily becomes 41 generated when the percentage of a speed ratio V2 / V1 deviates from a range of 80 to 90%. That's why the controller controls 50 at speeds V1, V2 with high accuracy. In particular, the controller controls 50 a feeding speed of the feeding base member of the microtome 21 , a speed at which the tape from the feed roll 2 is fed, a speed at which the tape from the take-up drum 4 is wound, a position adjustment of the roller 3b and the same. After the cutting process is completed, as in 2F shown is the cut 41 completely on the tape 5 raised and together with the tape 5 promoted towards the level F. When the cut 41 reaches the stage F, the supply of the tape 5 stopped, the operations of the take-up drum 4 and the rollers 3d . 3e is controlled further, and the tape 5 will be between the rollers 3d and 3e solved, as in 1 is shown. Further, the one with the water film 43 provided slides 42 raised, attached to the band 5 fixed section 41 gets in contact with the water film 43 brought, and the cut 41 is from the band 5 on the slide 42 by the adsorption power of the water film 43 transferred (transfer step). It should be clear that the water film 43 on the slide 42 by dripping a suitable amount of water from the waterdrop mechanism 44 on the top of the slide 42 is generated in level E. The one with the water film 43 provided slides 42 is with the help of the conveyor robot 80 promoted from stage E to stage F at a predetermined timing.

After the transfer of the cut 41 will be the one with the cut 41 provided slides 42 to the expansion unit 45 ( 45a . 45b or 45c ) of level H with the help of the conveyor robot 80 and this slide is attached to the hot plate of a desired expansion unit. Further, the one with the cut 41 provided slides 42 heated at a predetermined temperature, the cut 41 will stretch, and wrinkles or shrinkage will be from the cut 41 away.

For example, the one with the cut 41 provided slides 42 on a hot plate 46a the first expansion unit 45a attached, whereupon it is heated at a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period of time. The one with the cut 41 provided slides 42 who is in the first expansion unit 45a was heated, with the help of the conveyor robot 80 after elapse of a predetermined period of time, individually by the controller 50 is set, moves. Then the one with the cut 41 provided slides 42 if necessary, in the second expansion unit 45b promoted and exposed to a further expansion treatment under other conditions.

While the sensor 49 the temperature is detected, controls the controller 50 the energy supply to the hot plate. After heating with the cut 41 provided slide 42 at a temperature of, for example, 50 ± 2 ° C for about two minutes in the first expansion unit 45a , the slide becomes 42 the second expansion unit 45b supplied, heated and maintained at a temperature of for example 30 ± 2 ° C for about 30 minutes. If the expansion treatment is carried out stepwise for such a long period of time, the cut is obtained 41 a smooth surface without any wrinkles or shrinkage. It should be understood that a lot-temperature warm-up period of a second stage in the second expansion unit 45b extended up to 24 hours and can be shortened to 10 minutes. Instead of the expansion unit with the hot plate can with the cut 41 provided slides 42 are provided in a container of constant temperature and heated (heated) for a predetermined period of time.

On This way will be a non-colored Sample cut completed. With the help of a dyeing step and a sealing step by covering the sample with a cover glass is finally the colored sample section achieved.

According to the present Embodiment is realized an automation technology in which the cut, which has been adsorbed by the water film together with the carrier tape to the slide promoted and the cut is moved from the belt to the slide (transferred) to form the sample. Accordingly, it is possible the Degree of dependency from a manual operation in a pathological tissue examination or the like to a great extent to reduce.

Second Embodiment

The following is with reference to 7 a second embodiment described. It should be understood that a description of redundant parts of the following embodiment with respect to the embodiment described above is omitted.

In the second embodiment, a sample-cut preparation device comprises 1A a cooler 14 as humectant. The cooler 14 may be a cooling system that blows cold air at a set temperature, or a radiant cooling plate whose radiation (emission) cools an environment. An energy supply of the radiator 14 is with an output range of a controller 50 connected. The cooler 14 is in stage C above a passage line of a carrier tape 5 arranged.

Hereinafter, a case where a sample cut using the apparatus will be described 1A of the present embodiment is prepared.

A solid sample 20 is on a mounting base member of a microtome 21 arranged, and this is transported to the level D and positioned there. Subsequently, each one Zuführbandrolle 2 and a take-up drum 4 driven, and the carrier tape 5 is supplied at a predetermined speed. Further, cold air (for example, cold air whose temperature is set at 5 ° C) is discharged from the radiator 14 (Air cooling system) in the direction of the belt 5 blown to the tape 5 to cool. Accordingly, moisture contained in the environment will be on the surface of the belt 5 condensed to the tape 5 to moisten. It should be clear that the humidifier 10 the first embodiment with the radiator 14 can be combined. Further, when the radiator and the humidifier are combined and used as described, water droplets may be applied to the surface of the belt 5 be passed on.

If the slide 5 from the feed belt roll 2 above (above step D) the solid sample 20 is supplied on a conveyor base member, and a water-humidified Be rich a pressure roller 3b reached, the supply of the tape 5 stopped, after which the supply of the solid sample 20 starts. If the solid sample 20 in the direction of the cutting blade 22 is moved, becomes the solid sample 20 cut accordingly. With the supply of the solid sample 20 extends a cut 41 up to the band 5 , As soon as or immediately after a protruding end 41a the cut with the tape 5 comes in contact, the supply of the tape 5 started (see 2C and 2D ).

After the protruding end 41a cutting through the tape 5 adsorbed, the tape becomes 5 wound up with such a take-up speed V2, which is a percentage speed ratio of 80 to 90% with respect to a cutting speed V1, and the cut 41 will be on the tape 5 arranged. At this time, can easily make a shape defect (unevenness of thickness, wrinkles, shrinkage) of the cut 41 are generated when the percentage of a speed ratio V2 / V1 deviates from a range of 80 to 90%. Therefore, the controller controls 50 both speeds V1, V2 with high accuracy.

After the cutting process is complete, the cut becomes 41 completely on the tape 5 lifted and together with the band 5 moved to level F. When the cut 41 reaches the stage F, the supply of the tape 5 stopped, the operations of Zuführbandrolle 4 and the rollers 3d . 3e are controlled further, and the band 5 will be between the rollers 3d and 3e solved, as in 1 is shown. Further, one with a water film 43 provided slides 42 raised, attached to the band 5 fixed section 41 in contact with the water film 43 brought, and the cut 41 is from the band 5 on the slide 42 by an adsorption force of the water film 43 transferred (transfer step). It should be clear that the water film 43 on the slide 42 by dripping a suitable amount of water from a waterdrop mechanism 44 on the top of the slide 42 is generated in the E stage. The one with the water film 43 provided slides 42 is from a conveyor robot 80 moves from stage E to stage F at a predetermined timing.

After the transfer of the cut 41 will be the one with the cut 41 provided slides 42 to a stage H expansion unit using the conveyor robot 80 and this slide is mounted on a hot plate of a desired expansion unit. Further, the one with the cut 41 provided slides 42 heated at a predetermined temperature, the cut 41 will stretch, and wrinkles or shrinkage will be from the cut 41 away. In this way, a non-colored sample cut is completed. Finally, a colored sample cut is produced by a coloring step and a sealing step by covering the sample with a cover glass.

There in the present embodiment a minimal amount of water used to adsorb the cut through the Band is required to be passed to the band without that Over-moisten carrier tape, For example, in the transfer step, the cut can simply be from the tape the slide be transferred.

Third Embodiment

The following is with reference to the 8A . 8B . 8C and 8D a third embodiment described. It should be understood that a description of redundant components of the present embodiment with respect to the embodiment described above is omitted.

In the third embodiment, a sample-cut preparation device 1B three movable rods 32 . 33 and 34 and a stationary role 31 as a transfer agent. Each of the moving rods 32 . 33 and 34 is movably supported so that a position can be changed by a cylinder mechanism (not shown).

The stationary role 31 is substantially parallel to the surface of the first movable rod 32 in a predetermined position below the first movable rod 32 arranged in the stage F and leads the band 5 constant in the same position. The position of the stationary roller 31 does not change, but becomes the first movable rod 32 moved until the rod to the stationary role 31 abuts, as in 8B is shown.

The second moving rod 33 and the third movable rod 34 are at a predetermined distance in step F away from the stationary roll 31 / the first movable rod 32 are arranged substantially parallel so that they face each other, and guide the band 5 in the direction of a take-up drum 4 , The second moving rod 33 and the third movable rod 34 are each too in 8A shown, fixed positions offset, as in the 8B . 8C and 8D is shown. The following is a case where cutting is described 41 using the device 1B the present embodiment of the band 5 on a slide 42 is transferred.

The resulting cut 41 is fed to the stage F in a state in which the cut 41 on the tape 5 is attached, as in 8A is shown. Once the cut 41 directly above the with a water film 43 provided slide 42 is positioned, the winding up of the tape 5 through the take-up drum 4 stopped. As in 8D is shown, the first movable rod 32 lowered, and the tape 5 will be between the first movable rod 32 and the stationary roller 31 held. At this time, at the same time, the third movable rod 34 towards the second movable rod 33 moves, as in 8B is shown, so the tape 5 between the second movable rod 33 and the third movable rod 34 is held.

In a state where the tape 5 as in 8C held, then both the second movable rod 33 as well as the third movable rod 34 slanted downwards, and the one on the band 5 fixed section 41 is with the water film 43 on the slide 42 brought into contact.

Subsequently, in a state in which the tape 5 is trapped, as in 8D shown is both the second movable rod 33 as well as the third movable rod 34 moved obliquely upward, and the tape 5 gets off the slide 42 away. The cut 41 is from the band 5 on the slide 42 by the adsorption power of the water film 43 lifted.

Subsequently, the sectioned slide is made 42 the hot plate 45 supplied, the held band 5 is released so that the first to third moving rods 32 . 33 and 34 be moved back to the corresponding fixed positions. As in 8A is shown, the winding of the tape 5 through the take-up drum 4 started.

When such an operation is repeated, the cut becomes 41 gently from the tape 5 on the slide 42 transferred.

at the present embodiment Is it possible, to greatly reduce the frequency of generation of a disadvantage a part of the cut remains on a carrier tape side. Accordingly occurs barely a break of the cut on, and it can be a cut with one satisfactory shape can be achieved.

(Comparative Example)

The following is with reference to the 9A . 9B . 9C and 9D a transfer agent of a comparative example is described. It should be understood that the description of redundant components of the following example with respect to the previously described embodiments is omitted.

A sample preparation device 1C of the comparative example comprises a movable rod 62 and a stationary roller 61 as a transfer agent. The movable rod 62 is movably supported by a cylinder mechanism (not shown) so that a position can be changed.

The stationary roller 61 is substantially parallel to the movable rod 62 in a predetermined position below the movable rod 62 arranged in the stage F and leads the band 5 constant in the same position. The position of the stationary roller 61 does not change, but becomes the movable rod 62 moved in a gradual manner, as in the 9B . 9C and 9D is shown.

The following describes a case where a cut is made 41 using the device 1C of the present example of the tape 5 on the slide 42 is transferred.

The resulting cut 41 is fed to the stage F in a state where the cut on the belt 5 is attached, as in 9A is shown. Once the cut 41 above the with a water film 43 provided slide 42 is positioned, the winding up of the tape 5 through the take-up drum 4 stopped, and the movable rod 62 , as in 9B is shown, is moved obliquely downward to the tape 5 to press downwards. Further, the movable rod becomes 62 , as in 9C is shown shifted obliquely downward, and the band 5 is pressed down until the cut 41 with the water film 43 on the slide 42 comes into contact.

The following is the movable rod 62 , as in 9D shown is moved obliquely upward to a fixed position back to the belt 5 from the slide 42 to solve. The cut 41 gets up from the band 5 on the slide 42 by the adsorption power of the water film 43 lifted. After the sectioned slide 42 an expansion unit 45 was fed, as in 9A is shown, the winding of the tape 5 through the take-up drum 4 started. When such an operation is repeated, the cut becomes 41 from the band 5 on the slide 42 transferred.

The Transfer agent of the comparative example has the disadvantage that a portion of the cut remains on a carrier tape side, thereby a break or the like is generated in the cut, and the cut sometimes has a shape error. It was found that the transfer agent of the comparative example compared with the transfer agent of Device of the third embodiment described above is uncertain.

The The present invention can be used in the preparation of the sample section for use in a scientific sample analysis or medical or biological analysis, such as in microscopic observation of an organic sample.

According to the present Invention, an automation technology is realized in which the cut absorbed by the water film along with the auxiliary cutting element moved to the slide and the cut is sampled from the auxiliary cutting element on the slide transferred, and it is possible a degree of dependence on Manual surgery for pathological tissue examination or the like to a great extent to reduce.

Claims (13)

Sample preparation device, which is cut by means of a cutting knife ( 22 ) a solid sample ( 20 ) produced by embedding an original sample as a cut object with an embedding material to make a sample cut, the device being characterized by comprising: a cutting unit (10); 21 ) which moves the solid sample and the cutting blade relative to each other to cut the solid sample by means of the cutting blade with a predetermined cutting thickness; Moisture transfer agent ( 10 . 14 ) for passing a moisture to a band-like auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ); Cutting conveyor ( 2 . 4 ) for adsorbing the resulting cut by an adsorption force of the moisture that has been passed to the auxiliary cutting element to transport the cut; Transfer agent ( 44 ) for applying water to the surface of a slide ( 42 ) to transfer the cut from the auxiliary cutting element to the slide by means of the adsorption force applied by the water; an expansion unit ( 45 ) which heats the slide with the cut adsorbed thereon to remove moisture, thereby expanding the cut; and slide conveyors ( 80 ) for conveying the sectioned slide. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the moisture transfer agent is a humidifier ( 10 ), which sprays mist-like water in the direction of the auxiliary cutting element. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the moisture transfer means is a cooler ( 14 ) which locally cools the auxiliary cutting element and a peripheral region of the element to condense moisture contained in the atmosphere on the auxiliary cutting element. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the transfer means is a water dropping mechanism ( 44 ) is that drips warm water at a temperature of 30 to 50 ° C on the slide. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the transfer means ( 44 ) Drips water at room temperature onto the slide and applies, whereupon the expansion unit ( 45 ) heats the water present on the slide to produce warm water at a temperature of 30 to 50 ° C. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: control means ( 50 ) for controlling the cutting conveyance ( 2 . 4 ) for moving the auxiliary cutting element at a speed ratio of 80 to 90% with respect to a cutting speed of the cutting unit after one end of the cut has been adsorbed by the auxiliary cutting element. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: control means ( 50 ) for controlling the slide conveying means ( 80 ) to guide the sliced slide out of the expander after the sliced slide is heated by the expander. A sample preparation procedure in which a solid sample ( 20 ) produced by embedding an original sample as a cut object with an embedding material to produce a sample cut, by means of a cutting knife ( 22 ), the method being characterized by the steps of: (i) transferring liquid to a ribbon-like auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ); (ii) adsorbing with the aid of the auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ) to which moisture has been transferred, an end portion of a cut produced in a case where the cutting of the solid sample with the cutting blade (Fig. 22 ), then the cut is started by means of an adsorption force of the transferred moisture from the solid sample ( 20 ) to the auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ), the cut which is made continuously by continuing the cutting process of the solid sample ( 20 ) is continuously in close contact with the auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ), to which the moisture has been transferred, is brought, and the complete cut on the auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ) is transferred; (iii) moistening the surface of a slide ( 42 ) with water, close contact of the on the auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ) arranged section with this slide ( 42 ) and transferring the cut from the auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ) on the slide ( 42 ); and (iv) heating the sectioned slide ( 42 ) to evaporate water and expand the cut in this way. A method according to claim 8, characterized in that in step (i) mist-like water on the auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ) is sprayed to transfer moisture to it. A method according to claim 8, characterized in that in step (i) the auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ) and a peripheral region of the element are cooled locally to moisture contained in the atmosphere on the auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ) to condense. A method according to claim 8, characterized in that in step (iii) warm water at a temperature of 30 to 50 ° C on the slide ( 42 ) is dropped. A method according to claim 8, characterized in that in step (iii), after water at room temperature on the slide ( 42 ) and an extension unit on the slide ( 42 ) is heated to produce warm water at a temperature of 30 to 50 ° C. A method according to claim 8, characterized in that in step (ii), after an end of the cut by the auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ) was adsorbed, the auxiliary cutting element ( 5 ) at a speed ratio of 80 to 90% with respect to a cutting speed.